110 Marathons in 110 Days: Trent’s epic mental health journey nears the finish line
After running the equivalent of Hobart to Launceston 23 times, Trent Henderson is set to complete his 110th marathon in as many days for mental health. The reason behind his monumental mission.
Tasmania
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Trent Henderson is set to lace up his runners to take on his 110th marathon in 110 days on Friday, completing the challenge that has seen him run the equivalent of Hobart to Launceston 23 times.
Mr Henderson said he “can’t wrap his head around” just how far he has run, smashing his initial $6000 goal and raising more than $43000 for positive mental health and suicide prevention.
With the finish line in sight, Mr Henderson reflected on the challenges he’s faced, especially working full-time and overcoming a fear of running in the dark.
“It is such a surreal feeling, I am so pleased with everyone that’s helped me get to the point I am,” he said.
“All of those nights where I’ve been out there on my own running around in the dark, sometimes a bit scared I am extremely proud of the willpower it has taken from myself.
Mr Henderson’s connection to mental health advocacy began in 2014 when SPEAK UP! Stay ChatTY founder Mitch McPherson visited his school to speak about the loss of his brother, Ty, to suicide.
Years later, while facing his own mental health struggles, that talk resurfaced, motivating Mr Henderson to commit to raising money for the charity that made a difference for him.
Mr McPherson said Trent’s story was a reminder for him that there were always people out there who needed to hear their message.
“It’s a testament to his effort and what he’s been able to achieve, but also the people that have believed in him and believed in the fact that we can make a difference,” he said.
“Trent would have faced so many challenges over the last 109 days and he’s just grit his teeth, but he’s also been really open and vocal about it.”
Mr Henderson said he was so grateful for the overwhelming support, from honks of encouragement to strangers joining him for a few kilometres, he’s decided to run an additional 111th marathon on Saturday to “say thankyou”.
But it was his mum Mandy who really helped him through the challenge, cooking for him every day and even joining him on his runs in her crocs.
“Some of the happiest moments of the run have been when mum’s come out and had a bit of a joke and she’s handed me some brownies,” Mr Henderson.
“I think it’s definitely brought myself and my mum super close.”
Undeniably proud of her son, Ms Henderson said it “means the world” to know that the challenge has made a difference.
“There are a lot of people that have supported in a lot of ways. He’s got a lot of supporters that he doesn’t even know that have said that they’ll come along and be there to see the finish.”
Mr Henderson doesn’t plan to stop his advocacy at the end of his final marathon, hinting at taking on a new challenge.
“It’ll definitely be running, but I’m not sure yet,” he said.
Mr Henderson will begin his final marathon at 2pm on May 30 in New Norfolk.
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Originally published as 110 Marathons in 110 Days: Trent’s epic mental health journey nears the finish line
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